Pelorus River Rafting Journey: Explore The Hobbit Filming Sites and New Zealand's Pioneering History

Embark on an unforgettable journey down the Pelorus River in New Zealand. Discover the stunning filming sites of ‘The Hobbit’ and learn about the country’s pioneering history. Immerse yourself in the beauty of native plants and listen to the enchanting native bird song. Book your adventure now!

Duration: 3 hours, 15 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Pelorus Eco Adventures - Pelorus River Bridge
What's Included
  • National Park fees included
  • Guided tour with safety gear supplied
  • Local taxes covered
  • Round-trip transport from Havelock
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
  • Lunch
Additional Information

Embark on a canoeing journey on the most picturesque river in New Zealand.
With our knowledgeable and affable guides, venture on a fascinating and entertaining escapade as you paddle your way through the visually stunning Pelorus river.
The journey includes a brief strolling through the native bush, learning about indigenous flora including, but not…

Location
Bluemoon Lodge
Main Road
We depart from the Bluemoon Lodge, 48 Main Rd Havelock
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(171 Ratings)
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Cnhopp
Feb 27, 2026
Fun adventure - We had so much fun. Our guide Jade was lovely and knew her stuff. I would recommend this tour, it was so cool to go where the dwarfs went see how they did it!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
E7862whkarend
Feb 10, 2026
Lovely afternoon on the river. Without the orcs. :) - This isn't a wild level 4 rapids ride, but it is a lovely gentle half day on the river; we thoroughly enjoyed our time with our excellent guide, and really enjoyed our time on the Pelorus river, including navigating several mini rapids, listening to the birds, visiting a waterfall and having a swim. Everything was well organised and we were well taken care of. AND of course, we learned lots about the behind the scenes of the filming of the Hobbits in the Barrels scene. A good afternoon.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Rosette_a
Feb 6, 2026
Beautiful and worth experiencing! - Kayaking was an awesome experience. Jade was a great guide, providing great commentary on interesting facts about the area as we kayaked past and we also stopped at the area where the barrel scenes were shot for the Hobbit and Jade had some great stories to tell. Although we came in Summer, it was raining on the day and we were worried about the rain. However, it wasn't heavy rain and wetsuits and splash jackets were provided and the rain wasn't a bother. The rapids weren't too big, but it was still fun going through them and it was great just paddling and enjoying the scenery. Thanks for a great Jade!
Review provided by Viator
Claudia
Jan 22, 2026
Overwhelming! - Great Orga and indescribably great Kayak Tour! Much knowledge of nature was told. Taken a lot of time. Although there were only two of us the tour took place.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jasonbr6132xn
Jan 12, 2026
Beautiful River run - A beautiful sunny day to paddle down the river, perfect for a swim plus just enough excitement for a 12 year old in some small rapids.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joshd596
Oct 18, 2025
Hobbit rafting trip 10/10! - An absolutely wonderful trip. Took our 4 kids (ages 6-14). Jade was an informative guide, took amazing pictures of our experience. Highlight of the trip!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Missyb833
Aug 13, 2025
Lovely day out - This kayak tour was super fun! I had fun going over the little rapids and enjoyed a nice calm paddle otherwise. We also stopped briefly for a very refreshing swim and a photo with a waterfall. Gorgeous day on the water. Wonderful tour guide.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Trevorwillan
Aug 2, 2025
Amazing kayak experience - Amazing better than expected experience. The owner waited for us as ferry departure was delayed. Then taken to the river for a magical kayak experience. Stunning views, lovely kayaking with small fun rapids. Lovely waterfalls. Guide was excellent, professional, knowledgeable, felt very safe, even put a guide rope out when we had a short walk up a beautiful waterfall. Lovely fun family time I will never forget and the photos sent by the guide were awesome. Highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Richardsw6029om
Mar 17, 2025
Barrel Run Rafting Fun - The Hobbit Barrel Run Rafting by Pelorus Eco Adventures could not have been a better time. Jade was an amazing guide. She led us on our kayak adventure, shot photos, and told us all about the river and the filming of the Hobbit barrel scene. Shane was gracious and full of stories while providing a lovely lunch (more than we could eat). The weather was beautiful and there were few humans to see on the river. This was one of our favorite outings in New Zealand. Most anyone can do this! Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Cruiser316083
Feb 6, 2025
Great company, thank you - This company could not have been more fair to us. We had no idea that it was a public holiday and were unable to get a taxi for this activity. Even though cancelled on the day, they offered a full refund. What a great company to deal with.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $127
up to 9 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).